Most of you regular readers to the blog know I swing a hammer by day to pay the bills. What you may or may not have known is, I’m wanting to get into the harvest/ gathering table building business on the side, especially during the Winter months when things slow down. To that end, I’ve started to keep my eyes open for wood from 100 year old barns slated for demolition, with the intention of building family heirlooms for the next generation.

End wall of recent barn we were able to save.

Stacking the trailer with recycled barn boards.

The beautiful thing about a custom built harvest table is, I can build it any length you want. I talked with Bob this past weekend. He asked if I could build him a 13 ft by 36 inch table that he could put it in his 25 foot great room. I told him I had boards up to 14 foot long, so yes, I could handle a 13 foot table.

So, what are you waiting for? If you were to have me build you a table, what size would you like? 🙂 Any other details you’d like to see incorporated in the design? You can either order it finished or unfinished. Leave me a comment and we can talk pricing and specific details. DM

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Update 2-22-2012

Just received the nicest letter from Jayne today. She purchased an unfinished harvest table from me last September. She send me three pictures of her finished table, and now is thinking about a matching counter top island. Here is a portion of her note to me:

“Dear Doug,

Just wanted to let you see for yourself how beautiful your table turned out. It is exactly what we were looking for and it finished so nicely. We experimented to get the fills just right and they now resemble antique nails….”

Here’s a picture of her finished table:

On the back of the picture she wrote: ” Finished with Valspar Medium Oak and Golden Mahogany. Top coated with 4 coats of Poly satin. Easily seats 10 to 12 people!”

Another update 4/2/2012

I wanted to add, I can also build matching benches as well as other custom pieces of furniture. Price would depend on design and what you’re looking for. Bottom line, if you have something in mind, don’t hesitate to ask! If I don’t feel comfortable doing something I will tell you. I know other people in the trades, so if I can’t do it, there’s a pretty good chance I can find someone for you who can. DM

“Just finished my Kitchen Prep Table and I LOVE IT!!!! I still can’t believe how lucky I am to have found such a great guy to build my dream tables! I have enclosed a few pictures to show you how my table turned out. Feel free to post them on your blog. Thanks again! You were great to work with and (should I say it again???) I LOVE my TABLES!!!“

Here’s the kitchen prep table she was talking about:

Matching “kitchen prep” table that went with a harvest table.

____________________

Update 4/3/2014. I have had the opportunity to be in the wood shop for the past three months, Built several custom harvest tables…Here is some of the feedback I’ve received:

“Just wanted to let you know I absolutely LOVE the table and bench…couldn’t be happier:) Also, thank you so much for the cookbook stand…very awesome!” Kelly.

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Dan Welter 7 ft table with 4 by 4 tapered legs

9 ft table with 1 by 4 straight legs

Primitive 3 ft by 5 ft table with drawer on the end and painted 4 by 4 legs originally on horse drawn implement.

Update 2/3/2016 It has been a while so going to add some pictures of some of my latest work:

83 Responses to Let Me Build You A Harvest Table

Hi!
I’m interested in getting a harvest table made, but where are you located? I’m in Ottawa, Ontario Canada.
____________________________________________Kirby, I plan to e-mail you shortly so we can talk about what you’re thinking in more detail. DM

Just found this webpage and I have been looking for a table exactly as shown with the bench! What is the cost/shipping to Milwaukee? What is the estimated time on building? Thanks!!!!!
_________________________________Just sent you an e-mail, sorry about the delay. DM

We are interested in your beautiful harvest tables. Looking at 7 foot long, 42 in wide, standard 30 in height. Where are you located at? And, how long does it take you to make one?
_________________________________________________________________________________Kelly, I will e-mail you directly and we can go from there. DM

Please contact me with more information- I’ve been searching for a locally crafted harvest table. Thank you!
_______________________________________________Just got your note…. sent you an e-mail and we can go from there. DM

Hello, I love this harvest table. Where are you located?
_________________________________________________________________Hi Catherine, we are located in the Midwest (Iowa) ps. I’m going to have more time in about 4 to 6 weeks building harvest tables again, so if you’re @ all interested (or anyone else for that matter) now’s the time to get your name in the hat. DM

Hello, i am interested in having a Harvest table created for a gift. we are looking at 3′ wide by 7 ‘ long. It will be going to DM. is delivery possible? thanks. Pam
____________________________________________Hi Pam, I just sent you an e-mail, that way we can talk in more detail DM

Hi there. I am interested in a 6 ft by 28 in long farmhouse table. Can you please email me with more details…price, time, shipping.
Thanks!
_________________________________________Hi Abby, I just sent you an e-mail in reply to your note. DM we can interact more via e-mail

I would love info on a table. Looking for a narrow but not too long counter-height table (around 54″x28″x36″). Thanks, and many blessings. –O
_____________________________________________________________O, I would love to get you some numbers together on a table. Will shoot you an e-mail so we can talk in more detail. DM

Hi, can you let us know how to contact you regarding the harvest tables. We are interested in having one made. THanks,
Jacqui_____________________________________________________
Hi Jacqui, Thanks for the inquiry. I will shoot you an e-mail and we can go from there. DM

I got the nicest comment in the mail yesterday. Jayne wrote to tell me how much she loved how the harvest table she bought from me turned out. If you didn’t know this, I also dabble in making heirloom harvest tables…just click on this comment thread and it will take you to my original post and some photos. DM

Just got off the phone with Doug. He built the 8 foot table that is pictured above and is currently working on a counter height prep table for our kitchen (53″ long, 18″wide, counter height). I just want everyone to know how much we love our table! We had looked for years for a table that would fit our large family and to be able to get everyone seated comfortably with room to grow as our family does.

A couple of words of “wisdom”: 1. Don’t be shy with your sander. I was worried about taking away from the character of the table, but really, the grains of the wood are so beautiful that you can’t go wrong. 2. Experiment on the underside of the table with stain colors, and don’t be afraid to layer stain. (Pottery Barn uses an 8 step layering of their stain and finishes to achieve their standard dark stains). 3. Stay away from Minwax stains. They contain a urethane and won’t allow you to layer stain colors. I recommend Varathane brand. (I said Valspar up above, but I was confused). 4.If you are looking for a matte or less shiny satin finish, remove about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the polyurethene satin BEFORE mixing in the flattening agents on the bottom. The result is a nice low sheen satin finish. Also, mix the polyurethane EVERY time you dip your brush. The flattening agents settle quickly and you want a uniform look. 5. Be careful with wood fillers — not all of them will accept stain. We kept experimenting until we got the desired look.

Anyway, if you are on the fence about whether to order a table from Doug, I HIGHLY recommend you place an order TODAY. I am so glad I did! He is wonderful to work with and works hard to make sure your table turns out to your expectations.

We are looking for a finished table 28in x 7ft. We are going to be going through Iowa the 1st part of June and again at the end of the month. Thanks Teresa
_________________________________________________________________________Teresa, I will send you an e-mail and what we can come up with. DM

Hi! I live in NJ and my farmhouse table is pretty shot and trying to decide if it is worth fixing or just getting a new one. The finish is waxed mahogany and is 71″ long and 30.5″ wide. It is just great for the space I have. Would you mind private messaging me what average cost would be?

HI! Interested in a harvest table similar to the one you have photographed above. Not sure about size, would like to discuss. I will look forward to your email. Thank you!
_________________________________________________________I’ll do that right now 🙂 DM

I would like to talk about size and pricing! I think I would like a 7 ‘ x standard 30″ x 42-44″, and where you are located?
________________________________________________________Good morning Monica, I will shoot you a personal e-mail shortly. I am located in Eastern Iowa. DM

Are you still making Harvest Tables? We would like some info if you are? They are just beautiful!
_______________________________________________________________I am still making them 🙂 Currently working on a table/ computer desk and a 7 ft table and bench. after they’re done I’ll be looking for more work..I will shoot you an e-mail directly. DM

Hey! I’be been looking for just these tables for over 2 years, and I stumble across your blog to find out I live within an hour of you! I would love to lk to you about building a table and bench for me. Can’t wit to hear from you.
____________________________I just finished the two projects I had in the shop today..so your timing is perfect 🙂 I will shoot you an e-mail shortly.DM

Hi, I’m very interested in an unfinished dining table, benches, and a console table. You make beautiful tables! Thanks!
____________________________________Thank you Kendall, I will send you an e-mail and we can talk more.. DM

Hi Doug, Where we live, there are a lot of farms being used for custom without a family in residence, so as a result many barns are falling into disrepair. Every time I see another sheet of tin ripped off or more boards missing, it just breaks my heart to see all of that back-breaking work falling to ruin. So, needless to say, when I see what you’re doing it’s very exciting. Good for you, giving these buildings another go at life!!
__________________________________Deb, thanks for your encouragement…as a contractor and lover of local history…I get a catch in my gut every time I see one of those pieces of History fall into a heap. thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. DM

Hi there, I too am interested in pricing & info on your tables. Would love to get in touch with you soon. Thanks!
___________________________________thanks for your inquiry, I will send you an e-mail shortly and we can go from there. DM

Hello! I am enjoying reading your blog. I live in the beautiful coastal mountains in Canada, but hail from a farm in southwestern Ontario, complete with old barns! In the fall I find myself missing the apple orchards and changing foliage. Your harvest tables look like a little taste of home. I’d like to see if it’s possible to have one made and shipped to Canada. Thanks for your time
_____________________________________thanks for your kind words Andrea, I just sent you an e-mail so we can talk about what you’re looking for. DM

Hi
I saw your website, I wondered where you are located, what type of wood is the harvest abel made from and the approximate cost of a 32-36×108 inch table. Thanks! Eric J
______________________________________________________Eric, We’re located in Iowa. I’m not sure of the type of wood..it is a softer wood, but not white pine…much darker..I will send you an e-mail and we can go from there.DM

I am definitely interested in your harvest tables….send me your info
Oh and all your tables I’ve seen on here are beautiful 🙂
___________________________________Stefanie, Thanks for your comment. 🙂 Will send you an e-mail shortly and we can talk more. DM

Are you still building harvest tables?
________________________Yes I am. I took a break this Fall so I could complete an addition on my shop so I haven’t aggressively tried to find any work…just have to put a coat of paint on the walls, wire up some lights and I’ll be ready to go. What are you thinking you’d like a price on? DM

I was curious if you could build a small barn wood table/farm table. Not sure what they are called but we only need one that is 30 inches high 33 inches wide and 60 inches long. How much does that typically cost? I also would like two benches to go with it. Also where are you located at and how long does it typically take you?
_______________________________________________thanks for your comment. Just sent you an e-mail.DM

I’m soooo excited to find this.. I also live in Eastern Iowa and have been wanting to find someone to build me a harvest table!! Please shoot me an email!! Thanks!
________________________________Thanks for your comment. Just sent you an e-mail.DM

Hello! I’m like the rest of the folks above…interested in a table of yours! Can we connect via email about specifics? Thanks!
__________________________Just got your note. Will send you an e-mail today. DM

Hello! I found your sight :). I was wondering if you could email me and let me know how your pricing works.
_____________________________You bet! Enjoyed visiting with you this morning @ the dentist as well Julie. DM

I am wanting a farmhouse table built from my grandparents barn that needs to be torn down. We are located in Iowa, where are you located?
___________________________________Lisa, I just saw your comment, I will shoot you an e-mail as soon as I log off here. DM

Hi, I’ve been wanting a harvest table, but would love to have one made of reclaimed barn boards from Iowa. Can you please email me your info/pricing? Thank you!
____________________________ you bet. Just shot you an e-mail. DM

I am also interested in a harvest table, I think 10 feet long. I live in western Illinois, and I’m hoping we are within driving distance from you.
____________________________________Thanks for your interest, just sent you a note. DM

Hi,
I live in Los Angeles, and wanted to give my husband a harvest table for his new office space.
Is it possible to ship them here when finished? And would it be possible to get a less brown and more grey finish?
Thank you,
Felicity Kendall
_____________________Good morning Felicity, Absolutely, I could build you something and have it shipped. Timing is the issue, depending on when you’d like to have it, and my work load, but I definitely am interested in talking with you more, so I will shoot you an e-mail and we can go from there. DM

Can you send me information in regards to the lengths and width of the tables you make and pricing for the finished tables? Also, where in Iowa are you located? We may be able to pick up the finished table.

Thanks, I look forward to hearing back from you.
Christine
____________________________________thanks for your inquiry. Just sent you an e-mail DM

Very interested in Harvest table… seat 10 – 12 not too wide, maybe with some type leaf attachment for Thanksgiving as we don’t need but 2 seats usually 🙂 Also, we’re in Indiana… any idea about shipping? Thanks so much!

Hi, I am in central Illinois–I am interested in a table 30-32″X long enough to seat 10 or 12–could have leaves to add extra length–Harvest type– If you would, please send me an idea of cost, type of woods used, where you are located, and a time frame as to how far out you are in your production. Thank you. Great website.
m
______________________Thank you Maggee for your interest and compliment 🙂 I just sent you an e-mail and tried to answer all your questions. DM

Hi! These are gorgeous! We are looking for a reclaimed wood harvest table for our new home. About 8-9′ long. What would cost/shipping be? We live in St. Louis, so we could transport ourselves depending on your location. Thank you in advance!
__________________Lauren, I will shoot you an e-mail.DM

Hello
Your tables are beautiful! I have been looking for a table like this for a while now. I am looking for a long narrow counter top height table about 7-8 ft by 2ft. Please contact me with more information.
Thanks!
Kayla
______________Kayla, Just saw your message and sent you an e-mail. DM

Hello, I’m interested in finding out more about your harvest tables. I am looking for one that is approximately 3 X 6 ft.Please contact me with more information. Thank you.
Kathy
____________________Kathy, I just sent you an e-mail.DM

Hi, I am interested in rough pricing info. We are moving to Ankeny in a few weeks, so I will need to firm up dimensions. Theoretically we only need room for 4-6, but I like the idea of a longer table than necessary, and would like the possibility of an extension to fit 12-16. I would also like a bench for one side. Thanks!

I am interested in a table as well. Could you email me with price info? Looking at possibility of table and 1 or 2 benches, with table being about 5.5′ long and 3.5′ wide. Thank you!!
_________________________I just sent you an e-mail follow up. DM

Hi, I’m looking to have a harvest table made from reclaimed barn boards (48×80″) with solid square legs as well as a marching bench that fits underneath one side. Can you please send me your pricing info? Thank you!
____________________________Just sent you a follow up e-mail! 🙂 DM

My daughter has been looking for a harvest table using 3- 12 inch wide boards that are 10 foot long. Not too distressed so it is easily cleaned off with small children. I believe a trestle type support system would be best. We are from Nebraska originally but now live in South Carolina. So will need shipping info also, Please send the the approximate cost of building and shipping a table this size. Including cost of matching bench for one side.
________________________ Just sent you a personal e-mail. Thanks for the inquiry! DM

Hi DM: I would like to have a harvest table made from some walnut lumber my father (deceased) collected off his timber. I am not looking for a distressed look, but a clean look. The table would be approx. 4’x8′. I live in southeast Iowa. Please send me the approx. cost of building the table if I provided the lumber. Note that I’m not sure the lumber will work, but that is my first choice. Thanks.
Mary Jo
______________________Mary Jo, I just sent you a personal e-mail with some questions. DM

Hi. I am interested in a harvest table for our sunroom, possibly 3 feet by 5 or six with a bench for one side. We live in the Quad Cities. Would like to know approx. cost, your location, and any other details you think I should know! Thanks.

Hi-We are building a home. The dining room is 13′ x 17′. I’d like a table that would fit in that space. Looking to seat as many as possible. I’ve seen a lot of beautiful tables on houzz.com, so I could give you a better idea of what I’m looking for. The kitchen cabinets are cherry wood with a mocha stain. It’s an open floor plan. I’d like the table to have curves, not straight, and shined. We wont need the table until November or December 2016. Thank you.

Hello
You do beautiful work. My wife has been looking for something like this for some time and I would like to surprise her for her 50th birthday. Could you please email me your approximate timing and pricing for a 13 foot dining table with matching benches? Also, do you do any type of chairs for the ends of the table? Thanks

Wow! What beautiful, beautiful writing and hand art! I see you offered the harvest tables in 2011 and 5 years later are still at it!! I am so glad! Like all the others, Doug, I would love to know more about where you are located and what you would charge for a 6′ long table–are they all unfinished? Just today a good friend of mine mentioned she is looking for a “library table”–but I suspect she would easily and willingly trade out the word “library” for “harvest.” I am also thinking she would be interested in tapered legs as shown in the unfinished table, bench, and island picture. I have lived in Iowa City for 34 years (from suburbs of Philadelphia originally)–and am always delighted and amazed when I have a chance encounter treasure in the Heartland. No rush to respond–I am mostly curious–not sure what my friend would decide–just wanted to let you know that your blog, messages, and art were today’s treasure. Thank You!

Good morning and thank you Anne for your kind words! What an encouraging way to start the day by reading your comment. As to exactly where we are located, I will shoot you an e-mail and a link to our business page on facebook. Thanks again! DM

My daughter and I are both looking for harvest tables. One of them would be counter height. We live in Michigan and could wait for both to be shipped together. Can you give us an idea of your pricing? We are probably thinking a minimum of 6ft length and 36-42″ width. Please send info.
Thank you.

Hi, am not sure if this thread is still active, but if it is, I am interested in a 28″ by 7 ft table. Could you send me info, please? Please indicate if shipping is available. I live in San Antonio, TX. Thank you!!